This
event is sponsored by the Friends of Loudoun County Mental Health,
a private non-profit organization which operates in partnership
with the Supported Living Services of the Loudoun County Mental Health
Services. As listed in Loudoun
County Government Support Listing: "This group advocates for
mental health needs throughout Loudoun County, educates the general
public about mental illnesses, and raises money to fund our various
consumer-focused programs. Loudoun's Supported Living Services works
directly with consumers of the county's programs who are experiencing
serious mental illnesses."

On
beautiful Saturday October 23rd, LARG members wearing their ARES hats
provided communications for the Hike for Hope 2004 sponsored
by Friends of Loudoun Mental Health. The event was supported by Denny
Boehler - KF4TJI; Carol Boehler - KF4TJJ; Paul Dluehosh - N4PD; Kurt
Reber - KI4FWB; Tom Garasic - NA4MA; Angi Garasic - KG4AVR and Pepper
Garasic - "K9PG" Tom, Angi, Kurt and Pepper enjoyed walking the trail
while providing support. The hike was on the C & O
canal beginning at Brunswick, MD. They walked upstream along the Potomac
River about 2.5 miles, had a snack, and hiked back. The pledges the
walkers collect for each mile they hike goes to help defray housing
costs for mentally disabled Loudoun citizens.

Although
we had very short notice, we were able to provide support needed
for this activity. Denny got a chance to check out his "flag pole" mast
as net control. Out stations were able to communicate with HTs.

Fortunately
there were no emergencies to deal with. The hike's sponsors were
very appreciative of our being there to help.